Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, has expressed deep sadness over the death of veteran journalist and media entrepreneur Dotun Oladipo, describing his passing as a major loss to Nigeria’s journalism industry.
Oladipo, who was 56, died on Tuesday. He was the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Premium Eagle Media Limited, publishers of The Eagle Online.
Hamzat describes death as major loss to journalism
In a condolence message, Hamzat said Oladipo’s death was particularly painful for Nigeria’s online publishing industry, where he had spent almost three decades contributing to the development of digital journalism.
The deputy governor described the late journalist as a dedicated professional whose passion and commitment to the media industry would be greatly missed.
Hamzat also extended his condolences to Oladipo’s family, colleagues and the management and staff of Premium Eagle Media Limited.
From PUNCH to The Eagle Online
According to Hamzat, Oladipo’s journalism career began with his work as Politics Editor at PUNCH Newspapers, before he went on to work with other major Nigerian publications, including the Nigerian Tribune, Nigerian Compass and The Sun.
He later founded The Eagle Online, building the platform into one of Nigeria’s recognised digital news organisations.
Hamzat said Oladipo’s career demonstrated a strong commitment not only to journalism but also to the development of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital media landscape.
His contributions to the online publishing industry
Beyond running The Eagle Online, Oladipo also played leadership roles within Nigeria’s media community.
He served as a former President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) and was the pioneer President of the Innovative Media Partners Cooperative Multipurpose Society (IMPCMS).
Hamzat said Oladipo’s efforts to promote professional development, collaboration and stronger relationships among journalists and publishers would remain part of his enduring legacy.
Condolences from the media community
The death of Oladipo has prompted tributes from political leaders and members of Nigeria’s media industry.
Other public figures have also described his death as a significant loss to journalism and the country’s digital publishing community.
For colleagues who worked with him, his career represents the evolution of Nigerian journalism from traditional newspapers into the rapidly expanding online media environment.
A lasting legacy
Oladipo’s career spanned traditional journalism, newspaper management and digital publishing at a time when Nigeria’s media industry was undergoing significant technological transformation.
Through The Eagle Online, he became part of a generation of publishers helping to establish online journalism as an important part of Nigeria’s news ecosystem.
Hamzat prayed for strength and comfort for the deceased’s family and asked God to grant Oladipo eternal rest.
OnPointGist extends its condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and the wider Nigerian journalism community over the loss of Dotun Oladipo.
